pull up the ladder

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pull up the ladder" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is metaphorically or literally suggesting to remove support or access for others after achieving their own success. Example: "After reaching the top of the corporate ladder, he decided to pull up the ladder, making it difficult for others to follow in his footsteps."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Now, those teams with good analysts have an incentive to pull up the ladder.

The Economist

The meritocratic middle class have been quick to pull up the ladder behind them.

Independent

Young renters watch out – retiring baby boomers are about to pull up the ladder yet again.

The Guardian - Money

If you come from an advantaged background, your first priority is to pull up the ladder.

The Guardian - Opinion

Elites that have prospered from inclusive systems can be tempted to pull up the ladder they climbed to the top.

The New York Times

Yet that may simply encourage their residents to pull up the ladder after them as coastal residents have.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

He only asks that current beneficiaries pull up the ladders so that others can't avail themselves of the same entitlement.

Huffington Post

Hussain, a grammar school student whose grandfather came to the UK from Pakistan 60 years ago, says he is angry that those making decisions about higher education appear to be "pulling up the ladder" and making it harder for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to access university.

The Guardian

He alluded to the characterization of immigrant groups in this country "pulling up the ladder behind them," explaining that the real issue for them was finding a sense of belonging.

Vice

Messina's election to the board of the OpenID Foundation is deserved and a significant moment in the evolution of his and the others' efforts, but now is not the time to climb on board the Ark and pull up the ladders.

TechCrunch

Now they are pulling up the ladder.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, consider the audience's familiarity with the idiom. If there's a risk of misinterpretation, provide context or use a more direct alternative.

Common error

Avoid using "pull up the ladder" when you simply mean someone is protecting their own interests without actively hindering others. The phrase implies a deliberate action to prevent others from succeeding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pull up the ladder" functions as an idiomatic expression, serving as a metaphor for restricting access or opportunity for others after achieving success. This is supported by examples from Ludwig, which illustrate its use in contexts concerning social mobility, economic disparity, and professional advancement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiom "pull up the ladder" is a common expression used to criticize the act of preventing others from achieving the same success one has attained. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely understood, primarily within news and media contexts. While generally considered a neutral to informal phrase, it carries a negative connotation, suggesting selfishness or a lack of social responsibility. When using it, ensure the context clearly indicates a deliberate act of hindering others, and consider alternatives like ""close the door behind"" for clarity. The phrase appears across authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, reinforcing its established place in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

close the door behind

Implies preventing others from following a similar path.

cut off access

Directly indicates the removal of means for others to progress.

restrict opportunities

Focuses on limiting chances for advancement.

deny advancement

Highlights the act of preventing progress for others.

hoard resources

Emphasizes the accumulation of resources to prevent others from benefiting.

block the pathway

Indicates obstructing the route to success.

secure one's position

Focuses on consolidating one's own success, often at the expense of others.

eliminate competition

Suggests actively removing potential rivals.

protect vested interests

Highlights the protection of established advantages.

maintain exclusivity

Emphasizes preserving a privileged status.

FAQs

What does it mean to "pull up the ladder"?

To "pull up the ladder" means that someone who has achieved success prevents others from having the same opportunities or advantages that helped them succeed. It suggests selfishness or a lack of desire to help others climb to the same level.

How can I use "pull up the ladder" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe someone who, after achieving a certain level of success, implements policies or actions that make it harder for others to follow in their footsteps. For example: "After becoming CEO, he seemed to "close the door behind", making it difficult for new talent to rise through the ranks."

What are some alternatives to "pull up the ladder"?

Alternatives include ""close the door behind"", "restrict opportunities", or "deny advancement". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to "pull up the ladder"?

While generally negative, the connotation depends on the context. Sometimes, restricting access might be seen as necessary for resource management or maintaining standards. However, it's typically viewed critically when it unfairly limits opportunities for others. Also consider the intention, are they really "securing one's position" or simply protecting resources?